Farmers Markets In Kansas Benefit From Grant

The Kansas Department of Agriculture has selected 12 farmers’ markets as recipients of the Meet Me at the Market stipend program…. a part of the Farmers’ Market Consumer Recruitment Campaign Grant, and made possible by a U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant which makes funds available to state departments of agriculture solely to enhance competitiveness of specialty crops. According to the USDA, specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.” This stipend will provide market managers and vendors with resources to increase awareness of specialty crops available at their market, including funds for promotional events and marketing programs. Farmers’ markets are a primary point of sale for specialty crops in Kansas. Market managers have identified promoting their market to be a project for growth, but do not have the funds to do so. These funds will allow the farmers’ markets to reach the public in new ways and increase engagement. In addition, they will receive educational materials, marketing templates and tutorials, and promotional events hosted by KDA. There are currently 86 registered farmers’ markets in Kansas.
Source: VNC News